Frequently asked questions

We’ve shared some of our most frequently asked questions to help you out!

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Send us an email or call/text the number below.

hello@sparkmediachicago.com
312-625-6945


Booking & Scheduling

  • Booking with us is easy! Simply click the “SCHEDULE A SHOOT” button on our website’s top menu or visit our Client Portal. From there, you can create an account, schedule shoots, access previous photos, download files, and make secure payments through Square.

  • While we recommend providing 24 to 48 hours’ notice, the earlier you schedule, the better we can accommodate your preferred date and time.

  • We understand that plans can change. You can cancel at no charge if you provide at least 24 hours’ notice. For cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice, a $100 fee will apply.

  • Absolutely! Rescheduling is free as long as you give us at least 24 hours’ notice. If rescheduled within 24 hours of your appointment, a $100 fee will apply.

  • Our photoshoots are available weekdays and weekends from 9 a.m. until twilight (note: twilight times vary throughout the year). We’re also available on select holidays, excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.

preparation & on-site logistics

  • As a general guideline, expect about 30 minutes for 15 photos and 1 hour for 30 photos. Larger properties or additional services, like drone photography, may take more time.

  • A clean, clutter-free home photographs best. Encourage your client to thoroughly clean the space, remove any personal items or excess clutter, and make small adjustments like turning on all lights and opening blinds for natural light. Download our Home Preparation Checklist for a full list of tips.

  • If your listing isn’t ready, we may not be able to complete the shoot as scheduled. This could result in rescheduling fees, so please ensure the property is fully prepared before the shoot.

  • Not necessarily. If the property has a lockbox, you can provide the code, or we can access the home through Sentrilock. If the homeowner is present, we can meet them instead. Of course, you’re always welcome to be there during the photoshoot.

  • Yes! We recommend securing pets in a separate area or taking them off-site during the shoot to avoid distractions.

  • If the forecast calls for heavy rain, sleet, or snow, you may reschedule to the next available date at no extra cost. If you choose to proceed despite the weather, exterior shots may need to be rescheduled for better conditions. If this is the case, an additional $100 fee will apply for the second visit.

Services & offerings

  • We proudly serve Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.

  • We specialize in residential properties, including single-family homes, condos, and luxury estates. We also photograph commercial properties and rental spaces.

  • Yes, we offer video tours, drone photography, and drone videography. Contact us for details and pricing.

  • Yes, all photos are professionally edited to ensure the best quality. Additional services, such as virtual staging or object removal, are available for an extra fee.

  • Our standard turnaround time is 24-48 hours. Rush delivery may be available upon request for an additional fee. Consultation required.

  • Vacant properties should be clean and well-maintained. Virtual staging is available if you’d like to showcase the property with furniture.

  • Yes, we offer discounts for repeat clients and volume bookings. Contact us to discuss your specific needs.

Payments & policies

  • We accept various payment methods, including cash, checks, Zelle, PayPal, and major credit cards like VISA, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.

  • We take every precaution to protect your property. In the unlikely event that something gets damaged, we are fully insured and will address the issue promptly.

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Send us an email or call/text the number below.

hello@sparkmediachicago.com
312-625-6945